The American

Jack (Clooney) is one of the best assassins there is, but he decides that his next assignment will be his last. This last job before retirement takes place in Italy. One never to get involved, Jack makes an exception this time by dating local woman Clara (Placido). This decision could be the one that leads to his downfall.

The American is a unique film that fits in no category. It is no action film and no thriller, yet these are the two genres that it is closest to.

There are two striking elements in this film. The first one is the feeling of distance. Jack is someone we know very little about, and the locations, whilst stunningly beautiful, look cold and remote through the carefully chosen photography. The distance is heavy on the viewers, but paradoxically helps them to suspend their disbelief. The lack of information on the protagonist allows them to understand his MO better. The exception to this, very cleverly, is his relationship with Clara, which adds some spark to the film and makes it gripping and enjoyable.

The second element is the strength of the characters that are brought to screen. Whilst not much is given regarding any of the people appearing on screen, Jack and Clara both come off as having very strong, complementary characters. This character piece is all the stronger through the world-class acting of the lead couple, Clooney and Placido.

The American is like nothing you've ever seen before and one of Clooney's finest pieces. A must-see.

Pierre Schramm